University of Michigan Law School
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Michigan Law centers on the Law Quadrangle, one of the most beautiful law school campuses in the country. The Quad's Gothic architecture, including the famous reading room with its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, creates an inspiring environment for legal study. The Lawyers Club, a residential facility within the Quad, houses many first-year students and fosters immediate community building. Common areas throughout the Quad provide spaces for study groups, informal gatherings, and the conversations that build lasting professional relationships. Student organizations reflect diverse interests and identities within the law school community. More than 70 student groups address professional interests (from environmental law to corporate transactions), affinity connections (from Asian Pacific American Law Students to OUTlaws), and recreational pursuits. The student-run Michigan Law Review and specialized journals provide scholarly publishing opportunities. Pro bono opportunities abound, with many students completing hundreds of hours of legal service through organized programs and individual initiatives. Ann Arbor provides an ideal setting for law school, combining the resources of a world-class university with the livability of a charming college town. Students live in apartments throughout Ann Arbor's diverse neighborhoods, with options ranging from walkable downtown locations to quieter residential areas. The university's athletic events, cultural programming, and recreational facilities extend beyond the law school community. While winter months test Michigan resilience, the law school community embraces the seasons, and Ann Arbor's restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues provide gathering spots throughout the year.
Location & Surroundings
Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers an appealing environment for law school that balances intellectual stimulation with quality of life. The city of approximately 120,000 residents has developed around the university, creating a community where education and ideas drive economic and cultural life. Downtown Ann Arbor, immediately adjacent to campus, features independent bookstores, diverse restaurants, live music venues, and the kind of walkable urban fabric that characterizes the best college towns. Michigan's climate presents four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters that last from late November through March. While winters require adjustment for students from warmer regions, Ann Arbor maintains its vibrancy year-round, and many students develop appreciation for winter activities. Summers are pleasant, with warm temperatures and access to numerous lakes for recreation. The campus is highly walkable, and many students navigate without cars, though vehicle ownership enables easier access to Detroit and outdoor recreation opportunities. The law school's location provides both advantages and considerations for students planning their careers. Detroit, roughly 45 minutes away, is experiencing significant revitalization and offers legal market opportunities in automotive, manufacturing, and emerging sectors. Chicago lies approximately four hours west, accessible for interviews and networking. New York and Washington require air travel, though Detroit Metro Airport provides convenient connections. Students interested in practicing in coastal markets should plan for additional travel during the recruitment process, though Michigan's national reputation ensures strong alumni networks in all major legal markets.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Michigan Law's tuition structure reflects its status as a public university, with significant differences between in-state and out-of-state rates. Resident tuition is approximately $62,000 annually, while non-resident tuition approaches $68,000, with total cost of attendance reaching $90,000-100,000 per year including living expenses. Over three years, students should anticipate total costs of $270,000-300,000, though various forms of aid reduce actual expenditures for many students. Financial aid at Michigan Law includes both need-based grants and merit scholarships. The law school's Darrow Program provides full-tuition scholarships for a select group of admitted students, and the Weaver Program supports entering students committed to public interest careers. The Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) helps graduates pursuing lower-paying public service careers manage their educational debt. Additionally, Michigan's relative affordability compared to private peer schools means that similar aid packages result in lower total debt for Michigan graduates. Career outcomes demonstrate Michigan Law's return on investment. Approximately 95% of graduates secure employment within 10 months, with large law firm placement rates among the highest nationally. Firms pay starting salaries around $215,000 in major markets, enabling comfortable debt repayment for those entering private practice. Federal clerkship placement, including at the Supreme Court level, reflects the faculty's commitment to preparing future judicial law clerks. Public interest and government positions attract graduates supported by Michigan's strong LRAP program. The alumni network spans all major legal markets and sectors, with Michigan graduates known for their willingness to help fellow Wolverines advance in their careers.
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